About the Tradition of La Galette des Rois
Every year on January 6th, France celebrates Epiphany with the beloved Galette des Rois, a classic French dessert that brings families and friends together. While the traditional Galette des Rois is a puff pastry filled with almond cream (frangipane), in Provence, a unique variation takes center stage: the Brioche des Rois, also known as the Gâteau des Rois.
The Brioche des Rois is a crown-shaped brioche that’s soft, golden, and beautifully decorated with pearl sugar and candied fruits, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious. Its fragrant flavors come from orange blossom water, rum, or zest from citrus fruits, adding a touch of Provençal charm to this festive treat.
Traditionally, a small charm called a feve is hidden inside the brioche, and the person who finds it in their slice is crowned the King or Queen for the day. This fun and meaningful ritual makes La Galette des Rois more than just a dessert—it’s a cherished French tradition filled with joy and community spirit.
Want to make your own Brioche des Rois at home? Scroll down for my step-by-step recipe, complete with tips to help you succeed every time! Plus, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions about this delightful tradition.